The government of India has launched the TULIP (Traditional Artisans' Upliftment Livelihood Programme) brand to provide a platform for the marginalised artisan communities to sell their products. The TULIP brand was launched by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment at the opening of the ‘Shilp Samagam Mela 2024’,

Who organised the Shilp Samagam Mela 2024?

The Shilp Samagam Mela is organised by three institutions under the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment: the National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation, the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation, and the National Safai Karmachari Finance and Development Corporation.

The Shilp Smagam Mela 2024 is being held in New Delhi from 5 -15 November 2024.

Aim of the Shilp Samagam

The ministry organises the Shilp Samagam to provide a marketing opportunity for marginalised artisans to display and sell their products. Traditional handicrafts made by these artisans from all over India are displayed to highlight India's cultural diversity.

This year, products from 16 states are being displayed. A wide variety of products made from cane and bamboo, metals, pottery, wooden artefacts, handloom items, jewellery, leather goods, and various attractive textiles.

Who inaugurated the Shilp Samagam Mela 2024?

Dr Virendra Kumar, Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, inaugurated the Shilp Samagam Mela 2024.

During the Shilp Samagam Mela 2024, the Minister launched the e-market platform TULIP(Traditional Artisans' Upliftment Livelihood Programme).

What is TULIP?

The TULIP(Traditional Artisans' Upliftment Livelihood Programme) is an e-marketplace where artisans from Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, sanitation workers, and persons with disabilities can sell their products in India and abroad.

It is expected to improve the socio-economic conditions of these marginalised communities and empower them.

About the Institutions

National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation

The National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation was established in 1992 under the Companies Act 1956 and is owned by the government of India.

The Corporation promotes the economic and developmental activities of the Backward Classes. It also helps in the economic upliftment of the economically weaker sections of the backward classes by providing finance for self-employment ventures and also helps in their skill development.

Its headquarters is in New Delhi.

Managing Director -Rajan Sehgal

National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation

The National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation was established in 1989 by the government of India under the Companies Act 1956.

Its Headquarters is in New Delhi.

The Corporation provides financing and facilities for mobilising funds for the economic empowerment of persons belonging to the Scheduled Caste with annual incomes up to Rs.three lakhs.

Chairman cum Managing Director- Rajan Sehgal

National Safai Karamchari Finance and Development Corporation.

The National Safai Karmachari Finance and Development Corporation was set up by the government of India in 1997 under the Companies Act 1956.

Its headquarters is in New Delhi.

The Corporation aims to eradicate human scavenging and provides financing facilities to the Safai Karamcharis to strengthen their socio-economic condition.

Managing Director - Prabhat Kumar Singh